10 Essential Crystals for Beginners | How to Use Them

10 Essential Crystals for Beginners (And How to Use Them)

The world of gemstones and healing crystals is vast and varied, offering a plethora of options for different needs. For beginners, the sheer variety can be daunting, making it challenging to choose their first crystal or starter pack. 

The main hurdle for newcomers is the overwhelming array of choices, which can lead to confusion and hesitation, preventing them from embarking on their crystal journey. While the freedom to select your initial crystals is liberating, a bit of guidance is always beneficial.

We've crafted a concise guide to assist you in beginning your exploration. This guide will introduce you to 12 of the most suitable crystals for novices and provide insights on their usage.

Now, let's dive in.

The Benefits of Healing Crystals 

Sure, crystals and gemstones aren't just a feast for the eyes; they're like the Swiss Army knives of the spiritual world. They're thought to be energy superhighways, zipping good vibes around and giving the boot to the bad juju. 

Each crystal is a unique snowflake in the energy department, handling the vibes in its own special way. That's why it's key to know your amethyst from your zircon – you wouldn't want to mix up your chill vibes with your get-up-and-go energy, right? 

Now, let's cut to the chase and talk shop about the rock stars of the crystal healing world: Crystals are touted to speed up recovery from injuries, boost confidence, promote emotional zen, and even help with physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual issues.

• Aiding in better sleep,
• Preventing diseases and ailments,
• Protecting against evil and misfortune,
• Enhancing relationships,
• Drawing wealth and prosperity,
• Alleviating anxiety and frustration, and
• Boosting your mood are all significant benefits.

For better sleep, establishing a regular routine and creating a conducive sleep environment can be effective. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and regular physical activity can contribute to improved sleep and overall well-being.

Finding the Crystals that are the Best for You 

While it may be appealing to choose the most lustrous crystal and follow its guidance, it's important to distinguish between various crystals and begin with those that are user-friendly and address the specific conditions requiring attention.

1. Your Intuition and Desires

The choice is always yours. There's no definitive "Crystal Pyramid" to dictate which crystals you should have in your life. Usually, it's best to trust your intuition and select the ones that resonate with you. 

Additionally, you can choose crystals based on your specific needs. Just ask yourself, "What am I looking to gain?" and then pick a crystal that aligns with those needs. 

For instance, if you're seeking to reduce stress and improve your sleep, starting with a crystal reputed for its calming properties, such as amethyst, could be beneficial.

2. Shapes and Sizes 

Once you've chosen the type of crystal, it's just as crucial to consider its shape and size, as these factors will influence your daily use and maintenance. 

Different crystal shapes, like cubes, pyramids, and spheres, can alter their function and effectiveness, while size determines portability and convenience. 

For example, cube-shaped crystals excel in grounding energy, whereas spheres distribute energy evenly in all directions. 

Regarding size, smaller crystals are portable and can be incorporated into jewelry or attire, while larger ones are better suited for harmonizing energies in bigger spaces such as workstations, bedrooms, or apartments. Your choice should align with your intended use.

3. Overall Finish 

Crystals are typically shaped and polished or left in their natural state when harvested. The polishing process, known as tumbling, involves washing the crystals and rolling them in a tumbling barrel with various materials to smooth their edges without breaking them. 

While some argue that raw, freeform crystals are more potent, others disagree, finding them less effective for certain energy work. Moreover, raw crystals are cumbersome and unsuitable for jewelry making. 

For those new to healing crystals, it's advisable to start with smaller, tumbled stones, which are easier to handle and use.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Crystals 

To maximize the benefits of healing crystals, it's best to maintain constant skin contact by holding them, wearing them as amulets, or embedding them in jewelry or clothing. 

Additionally, keeping them close by, such as in your pocket, purse, or placed on a desk or windowsill, is also beneficial. The usage varies with the crystal's size, shape, and color. 

It's crucial to cleanse and recharge your crystals regularly. Common methods include washing them with water, burying them in brown rice, or using other stones to cleanse or remove negative energies. 

The cleansing technique must be tailored to the specific type of crystal, a topic we will delve into more deeply. The Best Crystals for Beginners

Having gained a clearer insight into the realm of healing crystals, let's proceed to our compilation of the 10 most fundamental crystals for novices.

1. Amethyst | See Here Amethyst 2.jpg

Amethyst is renowned as one of the most popular crystals. Typically purple or violet, amethysts are part of the quartz mineral family. These stones are often extracted from geodes or hollow rocks.

In their natural state, amethysts form prism shapes. With a Mohs hardness scale rating of 7, they are simple to carve into various shapes, yet remain durable enough for everyday wear.

The name 'Amethyst' originates from the Greek word "amethystos," which suggests a state of sobriety. Therefore, amethysts are believed to symbolize clarity of mind and are associated with peace, spirituality, trust, and royalty.

These crystals are ideal for those new to crystal use, especially if they seek better sleep or a more tranquil, clear-headed state during the day. Due to their ease of cutting and polishing, amethysts are commonly fashioned into amulets, such as necklaces or bracelets.

Despite their resilience, amethysts can lose color when exposed to intense sunlight or heat. Common methods for cleansing an amethyst involve washing and buffing with running water or immersing them in brown rice.

2. Clear Quartz | See Here Clear Quartz 2.jpg

Clear Quartz is predominantly transparent, living up to its name. This colorless crystal shares the Quartz family's characteristic hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. 

Like Amethysts, Clear Quartz can be readily cut and polished into various shapes and sizes. They are commonly fashioned into larger forms like spheres, towers, and wands, which are less portable than smaller talismans or jewelry pieces. 

Clear Quartz is highly valued for its healing and amplifying abilities, making it an ideal choice for those new to crystal work. It can enhance the properties of other crystals and contribute to overall well-being. 

Ideal for crystal grids, purifying other crystals, or as a standalone tool for repelling negative energy, Clear Quartz is versatile. It serves well as an ornamental element on a desk, beneath a pillow, or in various rooms of a home, including the kitchen, bathroom, or living room.

3. Rose Quartz | See Here Rose Quartz 2.jpg

Rose Quartz is considered a fundamental stone for beginners, primarily because it is associated with the heart chakra. It embodies all aspects of relationships, not only fostering love and compassion towards others but also promoting self-love. 

Distinguishable from Clear Quartz by its rosy pink color, Rose Quartz lacks the same level of transparency. 

Its connection to love and compassion means that Rose Quartz can aid in developing profound, enduring relationships, mending emotional traumas, and potentially enhancing heart health. 

While commonly found in smaller forms like jewelry and beauty tools (e.g., facial rollers), larger pieces of Rose Quartz can also be placed in your bedroom to enhance its energy.

4. Smoky Quartz | See Here Smokey Quartz.jpg

Smoky Quartz is a variant of the Quartz family, typically found in shades of dark yellow and brown, reflecting the hues of soil and earth. 

These crystals are often associated with grounding due to their earthly connection. They are believed to stabilize mood, enhance one's connection to nature, and dispel negative energies from the body, returning them to the Earth. 

For optimal use, Smoky Quartz crystals are recommended for meditation and as components of a crystal grid in one's home. They may need regular cleansing and recharging, depending on the situation.

5. Lapis Lazuli| See Here Lapis Lazuli.jpeg

Lapis Lazuli crystals stand out with their rich blue and indigo hues. Their unique surface, often speckled with gold and violet, makes them easily recognizable. 

These crystals are also synonymous with wisdom. In ancient Egypt, they were treasured by royalty and the elite, believed to enhance spirituality, intelligence, and understanding of the universe. 

Additionally, Lapis Lazuli is thought to be linked to the throat chakra, aiding in communication and self-expression. They're versatile too, perfect for making jewelry or adding to an altar or crystal grid.

6. Carnelian | See Here Carnelian.jpg

Carnelian crystals embody passion and energy, which is evident in their vibrant reds and oranges. As members of the Chalcedony family, they share the same level of hardness but differ slightly from Quartz in their molecular structure. 

These crystals are quite versatile, being easy to cut, polish, and shape. They're perfect for creating amulets or for use in altars or grids. Carnelian crystals are known for their energizing properties, making them ideal for those looking to boost motivation, desire, or ambition, while also providing a grounding effect that fosters a calm yet focused mindset.

7. Moonstone | See Here Rough Rainbow Moonstone.jpg

Moonstones are aptly named for their moon-like, pearly luster. They embody more than just their appearance; they are also symbols of femininity and the universe's cyclical nature. 

Beginners in crystal work often resonate with the power of Moonstone, as it represents change and the capacity to embrace it. Moonstones offer comfort and alleviate the unease that can accompany constant change, whether it be physical or emotional. 

Furthermore, Moonstones are believed to support fertility, hormonal equilibrium, and emotional fluctuations, reminding us that change is a constant and that we possess the strength to adapt.

8. Black Obsidian | See Here Black Obsidian.jpg

Obsidian, known for its glassy luster, is a crystal that forms from rapidly cooled lava. It's quite hard, but with a hardness rating of 5.5, it's more brittle compared to Quartz or Chalcedony, which limits its use in delicate jewelry. However, it can still be crafted into amulets and bracelets. 

Black Obsidian, in particular, is valued for its grounding properties, linked to the root chakra, and its reputed ability to dispel negativity. It's also seen as a 'truth seeker,' believed to shield its bearer from falsehoods. 

While Black Obsidian is often placed as a protective stone near doorways and windows, it's also fashioned into bracelets, pendants, and other types of jewelry that don't undergo heavy wear.

9. Hematite |See Here Hematite .jpg

Hematite crystals, with their lustrous dark silver shades, have been cherished since ancient times for their protective qualities against negative energies, despite not being as smooth or clear-cut as Obsidian. These crystals are emblematic of strength, protection, power, and courage, making them an excellent choice for those starting their crystal collection. Hematite's versatility extends to safeguarding against negative influences across physical, mental, and spiritual realms. 

Not only can Hematite be crafted into beautiful jewelry like bracelets and necklaces, but it also serves as a powerful addition to any space, be it at home, on your work desk, or in your apartment. 

For beginners seeking a sense of security or a boost of bravery, Hematite crystals are a go-to resource. However, it's important to remember that Hematite should not come into contact with water. To maintain its shine, simply use an old, dry toothbrush to gently remove any dust or debris.

10. Selenite | See Here Selenite.jpg

Selenite crystals primarily connect us with the spiritual realm and serve a higher purpose. These delicate, pearl-white stones have a softness rating of 2 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes them quite susceptible to damage. 

While it may be challenging to find jewelry containing Selenite, you can still collect these crystals and place them in your home to enhance your awareness and invite spiritual energies.

Selenite has the power to broaden our spiritual horizons and balance our emotions. They may not be closely linked to the physical world, but they are a vital part of any crystal collection.

It's wise to have a Selenite crystal on hand for those moments when you're drawn to explore the spiritual realms, making them a must-have in your crystal toolkit.

A Final Note 

In the whimsical world of healing crystals, there's no official playbook. However, for those just dipping their toes into the crystal clear waters, a starter kit with the essential sparkly stones can be a real gem. The crystals that made the cut for beginners are not only user-friendly but also versatile enough to tackle a variety of everyday hiccups, and they're a breeze to purify and power up again!

"Every ending is a new beginning."